Durban
South-africa
Discover the best restaurants, dishes, and local cuisine in Durban, South-africa. Read authentic reviews, browse menus, and find your perfect dining experience.
Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Durban
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsBeef Short Rib
Madam & Sir Florida Road / Durban (South Africa)
View Beef Short RibSlow-cooked Beef Short Rib, known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
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Seafood Platter
Madam & Sir Florida Road / Durban (South Africa)
View Seafood PlatterA platter of fresh seafood. Specific contents may vary based on availability but often includes prawns, mussels, and fis…
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Lamb Shank
Madam & Sir Florida Road / Durban (South Africa)
View Lamb ShankBraised Lamb Shank served with creamy mashed potato and roasted vegetables.
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Grilled Chicken
Comida Eatery / Durban (South Africa)
View Grilled ChickenGrilled chicken dishes are mentioned in online reviews
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Burgers
Comida Eatery / Durban (South Africa)
View BurgersComida Eatery serves a variety of burgers, which appear to be popular based on online reviews.
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Bunny Chow
Comida Eatery / Durban (South Africa)
View Bunny ChowA South African fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of white bread filled with curry.
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Multiple reviews mention the prawns as being a highlight.
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Seafood Platter
Dukkah Restaurant & Bar / Durban (South Africa)
View Seafood PlatterThe seafood platter is frequently mentioned in reviews as a good option. No specific details available on the exact cont…
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Lamb Ribs
Dukkah Restaurant & Bar / Durban (South Africa)
View Lamb RibsFrom online reviews, the lamb ribs are a popular choice.
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They offer dessert options to end your meal.
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Col'Cacchio has a reputation for delicious and creative salads, perfect for a lighter meal. They often incorporate fresh…
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Col'Cacchio also offers a selection of pasta dishes. Like the pizzas, they cater to various dietary preferences and feat…
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Signature Dishes
Durban cuisine is characterized by bold flavors, fragrant spices, and a love for hearty, comforting dishes. The dominant influence is Indian, particularly from the South Indian region, but it's been adapted and evolved to create something distinctly Durban.
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of white bread filled with a flavorful curry, usually mutton, chicken, or beans. It's a Durban staple, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Mutton Curry
A rich and aromatic curry, typically made with tender mutton, potatoes, and a blend of Indian spices. Variations exist, with some using yogurt or coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Chicken Tikka Masala
While originating from the UK, Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish found across Durban, influenced by the large Indian population and tourist draw.
Sugar Bean Curry
A vegetarian curry made with sugar beans, potatoes and is rich with spices. A very common and cost-effective dish in Durban.
Samoosas
Small, triangular pastries filled with savory fillings like spiced mince, vegetables, or cheese. They are a popular snack and often served as appetizers.
Breyani
A mixed rice dish with meat, vegetables, and spices. Similar to biryani, but often prepared with unique Durban spices and flavor profiles.
Gatsby
A long, oversized submarine sandwich filled with chips (fries), polony (sausage), achar (pickled vegetables), and sauces. It is meant to be shared and is very messy.
Local Tips
To truly experience Durban's culinary scene, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Spice Level Awareness
Be prepared for spicy food! Ask about the spice level when ordering and don't be afraid to request a milder version if needed.
Bunny Chow Etiquette
Bunny chow is traditionally eaten with your hands, tearing off pieces of the bread and scooping up the curry. Don't be afraid to get messy!
Explore the Markets
Visit local markets, like the Victoria Street Market, to find fresh spices, ingredients, and ready-to-eat Durban delicacies.
Ask a Local
The best way to discover hidden gems is to ask a local for their recommendations. They can point you to the best bunny chow shops, curry houses, and street food vendors.
Enjoy the View
Many restaurants along the beachfront offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Enjoy your meal with a side of breathtaking scenery.
About Durban
Food History
Durban's cuisine is a vibrant melting pot, reflecting its diverse history. Indian indentured laborers brought their culinary traditions, blending with Zulu ingredients and European influences. This fusion created a unique and flavorful food scene.
Food Culture
Food in Durban is more than just sustenance; it's a social and cultural experience. Sharing meals with family and friends is central to Durban culture, and many dishes are designed for communal eating.
Communal Eating
Many Durban dishes, like bunny chow and gatsby, are designed to be shared amongst friends and family. This reflects the importance of community in Durban culture.
Spice Levels
Durban cuisine is known for its spiciness. Spice tolerance is often seen as a sign of resilience and is embraced by locals.
Street Food Culture
Durban has a vibrant street food scene, with vendors selling bunny chow, samoosas, and other local delicacies on street corners. It's a great way to experience the city's culinary diversity.
Festival Celebrations
Food plays a significant role in Durban's cultural festivals, such as Diwali, where traditional Indian sweets and dishes are prepared and shared.